BELLINGHAM, Wash. — When it comes to starting a new business, Bellingham residents have been busy.

In a recent study, AdvisorSmith looked into the number of businesses started per capita in 353 US cities and found that among mid-sized cities, Bellingham came in 6th for the most businesses formed.

Adrian Mak with AdvisorSmith says Western Washington University students help a lot.

Mak also says the Cascades make Bellingham a great place for tourism businesses.

Looking at all the cities, Bellingham came in 8th, higher than any other Washington cities.

AdvisorSmith says Bellingham is starting businesses at a 64% higher rate than the national average.